Goodbye, sweet Bailey

May 29, 2013 was a very sad day for my sister, Logan, and the entire Chalk family. Logan had to do one of the hardest things imaginable – say goodbye to her loving companion of 10 years, Bailey.

I hesitated to post anything on our blog here about Bailey and her passing, but I figured it would be a great way to honor her with a few words and some pictures of the wonderful times we all had with her, especially my sister.

In the end, it was a tumor around Bailey’s heart that was shutting down her organs and weakening her heart. There was really nothing to be done and Logan made the right call in putting Bailey to sleep in order to save her from further pain. Bailey was the sweetest, most beautiful, most loving & lovable, and most loyal companion a dog owner could ever ask for. She was a distant relative of my golden retriever, Rainier, and I remember the first day Rainier, Logan, my mom, & I went out to visit Bailey. We figured if Rainier approved, she was a keeper. Bailey was a show girl, aka show dog, the first year of her life, and so entering the real world of everyday life (getting in and out of cars, going on hikes, etc) was a bit of a transition for her.

Bailey really was the sweetest dog I have ever known – well, maybe equal with Rainier. She never, ever left my sister’s side – a testament to her loyalty.

She seemed to be always looking out for my sister and her family.

Every time I traveled back home to Charlotte, a highlight of my trip was seeing Bailey and spending time with her. I think Logan & my only wish was that Rainier and Bailey were not separated by 2000 miles and we could have gotten them together more. Bailey loved going to Bald Head Island, NC and playing on the beach and in the surf.

I think Bailey & Rainier both really taught my sister & I how to care for and love something much more than ourselves. They were both our first loves and will always hold a special place inside our hearts. We all will miss you so much, Bailey, especially my sister, but know you are in a wonderful doggie-heaven waiting for the rest of us. You are truly the best of all of us and while we tear up at not having you physically beside us anymore, we know you are always with us in spirit and looking down upon us. Its truly a time now to celebrate your wonderful 10 years of life. You will always be the best dog and canine companion my sister has ever and will ever have by her side. We all love you so much. Rest in peace, sweet Bailey, and we will see you again.